Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021)
Shop Samsung Galaxy Tab
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016)
Starting at
£45.17£203.87 new
Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021)
Starting at
£116.50£399.99 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) and Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021)?
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) starts at £45.17, £71.33 less than the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021). The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Weight
Connector
- The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) has a bigger screen: 10.1 inch vs 8.7 inch.
- Screen type: PLS LCD on the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016), TFT LCD on the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021).
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) specs
The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) and the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) cater to different needs. The Galaxy Tab A offers a larger, sharper screen and more RAM, making it better suited for watching videos and keeping multiple apps open. Its 3 GB RAM and higher pixel density provide a clear, spacious viewing experience. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is smaller and lighter, with software support up to Android 14 and stereo speakers for improved sound. It suits those wanting a compact device for everyday use, reading, and general browsing with the convenience of USB Type-C charging. Storage options also differ, with the A7 Lite stocked only in 32GB and the older Tab A available in 16GB or 32GB. Both are unlocked and offer an 8-megapixel camera, but their screen sizes and software support shape who they work best for.
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) price
Colour
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) battery life and software updates
Durability here refers mainly to software support and operating system updates. These affect how long each device stays current with apps and security.
Software Updates
The Galaxy Tab A supports up to Android 8.1, which suits users happy with a stable, older system.
Battery
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) performance
Performance differences lie in processor brand, type, and RAM size, plus storage options. These influence how smoothly the tablets run apps and manage files.
Processor and RAM
The Galaxy Tab A uses a Samsung Exynos 7870 Octa processor with 3 GB RAM, which helps keep apps running smoothly and supports multitasking. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has a Mediatek Helio P22T processor with 2 GB RAM, fitting everyday use like browsing and reading. The extra RAM in the Tab A benefits users who run more apps simultaneously.
Storage Options
The Galaxy Tab A offers 16GB or 32GB storage, giving some choice depending on your storage needs. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite comes with 32GB storage, suitable for users who want more space for apps, media, and files without needing multiple options.
Chipset
Processor
Processor brand
Processor core
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) screen
Screen quality covers size, resolution, pixel density, and panel type. These affect how clear and spacious the viewing experience is for reading, videos, and apps.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy Tab A has a 10.1 inch screen with 1200 x 1920 resolution, offering a larger and more detailed display. This suits users who want more room for watching videos or multitasking. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has an 8.7 inch screen with 800 x 1340 resolution, making it more compact and easier to hold for reading and on-the-go use.
Pixel Density and Panel Type
With 230 pixels per inch and a PLS LCD panel, the Galaxy Tab A delivers a sharper and clearer picture, ideal for detailed viewing. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has 180 pixels per inch and a TFT LCD screen, which works well for everyday tasks but provides a less sharp image compared to the Tab A.
Display glass
Pixel density
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) camera
Audiovisual features include speakers and webcams. These influence sound quality and video call experience.
Speakers
The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite has stereo speakers, providing richer and more immersive sound, which benefits watching videos or listening to music. The Galaxy Tab A has standard speakers, suited for general audio needs.
Webcam
Both devices include a webcam, making them equally suitable for video calls and online meetings.
Front camera definition
Rear camera definition
Speakers
Video recording
Webcam
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) size and design
Other differences include physical connectors, weight, and charging ports, which affect convenience and portability.
Connector Type
The Galaxy Tab A uses a Micro USB connector, which is common but less modern. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite features a USB Type-C connector, providing faster and more convenient charging and data transfer.
Weight
The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite weighs 366 g, making it noticeably lighter and easier to hold for long periods, especially when reading or browsing. The Galaxy Tab A weighs 525 g, which suits users who prefer a larger device and don't mind the extra weight.
Other Features
Both tablets are unlocked and do not support 120hz refresh rates or dual SIM, making them straightforward for general use without carrier restrictions.
120hz
Bluetooth version
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Double sim
Headphones connectivity
Height
Megapixels
Sim format
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) or Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £45.17, £71.33 less than the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021)
- you want more RAM (3 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (10.1 inch vs 8.7 inch)
Buy the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) if
- you want a lighter build (366 g vs 525 g)
- you want the newer model (2021)
What our customers say
Customers appreciate the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) for its large, sharp screen and smooth performance. Many find the 16GB storage sufficient for everyday apps and photos. The tablet is praised for running smoothly and providing a good video watching experience. Users say it looks spotless and feels fast enough for general use. Some mention the battery lasts through the day but may need topping up by evening. Overall, it suits children, casual users, and those wanting a spacious display.
Reviews for the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) highlight its compact size and light weight, making it comfortable for reading and easy to hold. Customers note it boots quickly and runs well for browsing, streaming, and reading e-books or comics. Battery life is generally good for a full day of use. Many appreciate its performance for everyday activities. The USB Type-C connector and stereo speakers also receive positive mentions. This tablet fits users looking for a smaller, portable device that handles common tasks reliably.
Both devices suit different needs: the Galaxy Tab A is better for those wanting a larger screen and more RAM for multitasking, while the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite appeals to users prioritising portability, updated software, and stereo sound.
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) FAQs
Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) vs Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB. The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) has a bigger screen: 10.1 inch vs 8.7 inch.
The Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) is cheaper refurbished, from £45.17 compared with £116.50 for the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021).
The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) adds a lighter build (366 g vs 525 g). Refurbished, it costs £71.33 more (from £116.50 vs £45.17).
Refurbished, the Galaxy Tab A (10.1", 2016) comes in 16GB and 32GB, and the Galaxy Tab A7 Lite (8.7", 2021) in 32GB.
